Summary
SinceSkull and Boneswas initially conceived as a spin-off ofAssassin’s Creed 4: Black Flag, it is no surprise that the two games share a ton of similarities. Many of the mechanics feel alike, the world looks pretty similar, and even the pirate aspects seem to be copy-and-pasted. WhileSkull and Bonesmay not do everything right, theBlack Flagfeatures it expanded really help deliver some of that pirate fantasy players have been craving for the past decade.
One of the best aspects thatSkull and Bonesborrowed is the actual seafaring gameplay, which defines the entire experience. Not only do the ships handle like a moreimproved version ofBlack Flag’s Jackdaw, but the studio has also gone the extra mile with the sea shanties. Even though there is still a long way for the game to go, these features are able to shine through the controversial live-service mechanics.
Skull and Bones Takes Inspiration From Some of Black Flag’s Best Parts
Assassin’s Creed 4: Black Flag Walked so Skull and Bones Could Run
No one could have really anticipatedjust how popularAssassin’s Creed 4: Black Flagwasgoing to be when it first launched back in 2013. The franchise may have been one of Ubisoft’s heavy hitters, but afterAssassin’s Creed 3’s ending, there was no obvious way forward. Instead of playing it safe, the studio chose to take a massive risk by crafting a pirate game within the iconic franchise.
That risk paid off immensely as players were given one of, if not the best pirate game out there. The oceans were a true sight to behold, the gameplay was extremely satisfying, and the piracy theme meshed withAC’s identity just fine. It was an extremely immersive experience, with fan favorite mechanics like the sea shanties still being talked about to this day. Because of its success, Ubisoft woulddo it once more withAssassin’s Creed Rogueand start development onSkull and Bones. Now, 11 years later,Skull and Boneshas taken some of those fan-favorite features to new heights.
Sea Shanties Give Skull and Bones More Life
One of the best parts ofBlack Flagwas sailing the high seas as the crew sang songs, and luckily, Ubisoft seems to have understood that. InSkull and Bones, players are once again able to do just that. While the speed of the ship may be hampered by a stamina bar, the sea shanties never have to stop. Now, players can toggle them on at a moment’s notice and change them like their own personal pirate radio station. There are many new songs to jam out to along with a few returning favorites thatAssassin’s Creedfans will instantly recognize.
These sea shanties are a joy to listen to as the wind flies through the ship’s sails and the ocean water hits the deck. Players may just get lost sailing into the unknown listening to their favorite shanties as they go. Even thoughSkull and Bonesmay be lackingin some areas, it is definitely not lacking in that regard, which makes it the perfect experience for anyone that just wants to see the wide-open ocean.
Not only are the sea shanties great inSkull and Bones, but the game also improves upon many otherAssassin’s Creed 4: Black Flagfeatures. The ships are far more customizable than the Jackdaw ever was, the ship combat has been refined for a more tactical experience, there are more factions to engage with on the high seas, and players can be whoever they want to be in this world. While it may not be for everyone, it does at least feel like Ubisoft understood what some people loved about Edward’s adventure.
Skull and Bones
WHERE TO PLAY
Set sail into the vibrant open world of Skull and Bones, a naval online action RPG where you rise to become the most fearsome pirate kingpin.ENGAGE IN SPECTACULAR NAVAL COMBATPrepare for devastating battles by crafting a dozen different ships and equip your fleet with powerful loadouts. Unlock stronger weapons as you progress and customize your ships to reflect your unique pirate playstyle.SAIL INTO A DANGEROUS HELL IN PARADISEVoyage into the Indian Ocean and explore a vast open world teeming with cutthroat pirates, deadly sea monsters, supernatural threats, devastating storms, and more.TEAM UP WITH FELLOW PIRATESSail the lawless seas solo or team up with two friends or other players to partake in shareable contracts and rewards.ENJOY EVER-EVOLVING CONTENTEach season, face a brand-new legendary sea lord and discover fresh content, limitless endgame opportunities, and new exciting features designed to enhance your pirate experience.
